Description

Tennessee Onion Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and savory appetizer made with caramelized sweet onions, a blend of cream cheese and mayonnaise, aromatic garlic and thyme, and topped with melted cheddar and smoked gouda cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for serving with crackers, crostini, or fresh bread at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Onions and Butter

2 large sweet onions, chopped (Vidalia recommended)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Dip Base

1 cup mayonnaise
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt

Cheeses

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese

Garnish

Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for baking the dip later.
Cook Onions: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and tender, approximately 15 minutes. This slowly caramelizes the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Mix Dip Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. To the softened onions, add 1 cup mayonnaise, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined into a creamy mixture.
Bake the Dip: Place the skillet directly into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted and started to turn golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dip for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm with your choice of crackers, crostini, or slices of fresh bread for dipping.

Notes

Use Vidalia or another sweet onion variety for best flavor.
Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
You can substitute smoked gouda with another smoky cheese if preferred.
This dip is best served warm but can be reheated gently in the oven.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Southern

Keywords: Onion dip, Tennessee dip, cheesy dip, party appetizer, baked dip, sweet onion dip